The leading global expert on the impact of marriage equality overseas has told a major Sydney institute that Australia has nothing to fear and much to gain from allowing same-sex couples to marry.
In an address to the Sydney-based Whitlam Institute on Friday night Professor Lee Badgett said,
“Research has clearly shown that allowing same-sex couples to marry has not caused or contributed to any perceived decline in marriage overseas.”
“In fact marriage equality has strengthened families by fostering greater commitment between same-sex partners, providing their children with a greater sense of security and stability, and integrating same-sex couples more closely into their extended families and communities.”
“My message to Australian politicians considering marriage equality is that if you want to strengthen marriage and families you should support this reform.”
While in Australia Prof Badgett has met with state and federal MPs to outline her research into the impact of marriage equality in the Netherlands and Massachusetts.
Prof Badgett has conducted the research in her dual roles as professor of economics at the University of Massachusetts and Research Director at the UCLA Williams Institute, and published her results in an award-winning book, “When Gay People Get Married: what happens when societies legalize same-sex marriage”.
Earlier in her visit Prof Badgett released figures showing that the Australian economy would benefit by at least $161 million in new spending if same-sex couples are allowed to wed.
Also speaking at yesterday’s seminar was Boris Dittrich, the former Dutch MP who was responsible for introducing marriage equality legislation in the Dutch Parliament.
For interviews with Professor Badgett contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.